Lobular carcinoma in situ is considered a high risk factor for, rather than a sign of breast cancer. This diagnosis means that abnormal cells have been detected in one or more of your breast lobes. Research shows that when a lobular carcinoma in situ is found, there is a 20% to 30% chance that you will develop invasive breast cancer during the next 30 years, in either breast.

Since lobular carcinoma in situ is a "warning sign" that you have a higher risk for other breast cancer, removing it isn't enough. With this condition, you will have a higher continued risk of developing breast cancer.

Health care providers can treat lobular carcinoma in two ways. One way is to monitor your breast very carefully with exams every 3 to 4 months and yearly mammograms, to detect early invasive cancer if it occurs. Another option is to remove both breasts, since they are at equal risk of future invasive breast cancer. You should choose what treatment is right for you.